Title: CSI: Miami - Realisations

Author: D M Harper

Summary: Sometimes the things you really need in your life are right under your nose. A/U

Pairing: Calleigh Duquesne & Natalia Boa Vista

Rating: M for Mature readers.

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of CSI: Miami they belong to creators Anna Donahue, Carol Mendelsohn & Anthony E. Zuiker. I only use them for the purposes of entertainment and do so for no financial gain. I do stake a claim on all original characters that make an appearance in this story. No copyright infringement is intended towards CBS Paramount Network Television or Jerry Bruckheimer Television.

Author's Note: Later chapters deal with the subject of rape, please be warned!

Chapter 3

Natalia opened the door to a smiling Calleigh. The blonde was dressed in denim jeans, black boots, mid-length black leather jacket and a dark blue cashmere sweater.

"Hello. You look gorgeous Cal and I see you have trimmed your hair."

Smirking, Calleigh handed Natalia a bottle of wine and checked out her date. The brunette was wearing beige linen slacks and a loose fitting sky blue Oxford shirt. Calleigh had never seen her look more beautiful, "Thank you for noticing and you are as gorgeous as always."

Natalia blushed a deep shade of red, "Come on through and I'll take your coat. I hope you are hungry, dinner is ready."

"It smells delicious Natalia."

Leading Calleigh into the dining area, Natalia entered the kitchen to pour two glasses of wine.

"Do you need a hand?" asked Calleigh.

"No, I've got it covered." She joined her guest and passed her a glass, "I'll just fetch dinner."

Moments later, Natalia returned carrying two oven dishes.

"I had a strong feeling you could cook," admitted Calleigh as she breathed in the rich aromas.

"With a Puerto Rican mother and French father, it was only natural I'd pick up a few tips over the years." Sitting down, she removed the lids from the dishes of Tartiflette and Blancs De Poulet Dores.

"Oh this is wonderful."

"It's my best dish and there are pear tartlets for dessert."

"Mmm, you are a woman with many talents."

"Time will tell if I share others with you," teased Natalia light heartedly.

Calleigh smirked, "It's been a long time since someone cooked for me."

"It's nice to cook for more than one for a change."

"Do your sisters cook this well?"

"Yes, I think that's how Anya and Christine snared their husbands."

"Rick is married to Anya and Andrew and Christine have two young girls right?"

"Very good and it's nice to know someone actually listens to me."

"Sweetie, if you keep feeding me this well, I'll be waltzing you down the aisle in no time."

"I'll remember you said that for future reference."

The conversation remained jocular with both women laughing and enjoying the other's company while learning more about each other.

Retiring to the spacious living room after dessert, Calleigh sat beside Natalia on the leather couch, "Thank you for dinner Talia."

"You're welcome; I've really liked having your company."

"And you have been a most gracious host."

"Oh you are smooth Duquesne."

"Only if I manage to impress you."

"You impressed me the first day I stepped inside the Crime Lab four years ago."

"Oh you are definitely good for the ego Miss Boa Vista."

"I can say the same about you."

"When was the last time you dated?"

"I was seeing Officer Del Marco when you went into your coma."

Calleigh's eyes widened, "Angela?"

"Yes."

"You have good taste Talia, she's very striking. So, what happened between you two?"

"Her ex reappeared and I graciously bowed out."

"I'm sorry."

"It was nice while it lasted, which was six weeks. After the Eric fiasco followed by my ex-husband's death, I swore off men for good."

Calleigh nodded in understanding, "Have you dated many women?"

"I prefer women and have had more female lovers than male."

Blonde brows rose in question, "Really?"

"You sound a little shocked. My first relationship was with a female and in hindsight; I should have stayed with what made me happier."

"You and me both," conceded Calleigh with a roll of her eyes. "I've been hopeless. Look at how well it ended with Detective John Hagen."

Natalia reached over and placed her hand over Calleigh's shoulder, "It's not your fault he shot himself or the fact he was a dirty cop."

"I know, but I seem to be drawn to the bad boys. Secret Service Special Agent Peter Elliot was a liar and cheat while Jake Berkley was no better."

"Again, that was not your fault Cal. So what do you want?"

"I'd like someone who can be honest, loyal and understand my needs and desires."

"That's very obtainable."

"I believe that too and I would like to settle down. Maybe raise a child before I am too old."

Snickering, Natalia grinned, "Hey, I'm nearly two years older than you and I don't consider thirty five to be old."

"Well neither is thirty six. Do you want children?"

"I do and realise I want to settle down with a woman."

"I do too. Eric was the turning point for me and I refuse to hide any relationship I may have in the future."

"It's funny, but when I was with Angela, I felt so open. We never shied away and it was nice to be able to hold hands in public. I thought someone would have seen us out and about, but no one did and it was pleasant being with someone who was confident with their sexuality."

"I can fully understand that. I have dated several women in between my woeful choices in men."

"Karma Cal," taunted Natalia.

The blonde chuckled, "You know I'm a big believer in Karma."

"Would you like some more wine?"

"I better not; I still have to drive home."

"You could always sleep over again."

"That's very tempting. Your bed and body are very comfortable."

"Then stay Calleigh, no strings attached."

Green eyes sparkled, "I'd like to keep this conversation going."

"In that case, I'll pour us another glass."

It was past ten when Calleigh started to yawn, "I'll just go collect your clothes from my truck, I'm ready for bed."

"So am I, I'll just clean up and meet you in the bedroom."

"Okay Talia, I think I'll take a shower first."

Natalia collected the empty wine bottle and glasses then took them into the kitchen. Going to her bedroom, she waited until she heard Calleigh secure the front door before taking a quick shower and brushing her teeth.

Settling into bed, she was nearly asleep when Calleigh slipped in behind her. Natalia flicked off the side lamp and said, "Goodnight Cal."

"You too Talia, sweet dreams."

-0-

For the following three weeks Miami was hit with a crime spree and the Crime Lab was backed up with cases. Overtime was rampart and private moments alone between Calleigh and Natalia were non existent. Both women were frustrated, but too busy to complain.

After a successful second date at the movies, Natalia had sent Calleigh a dozen red roses and an invite to one of her favourite restaurants. Unfortunately, the opportunity for date number three never eventuated.

Due to the backlog and the fact Calleigh had been temporarily assigned to the graveyard shift, the two women didn't have any free time that coincided. Calleigh did however; call Natalia every evening to wish her goodnight. Their conversations were brief, but very welcomed.

-0-

By mid-May work had returned to a more regular routine and it was Saturday when Natalia pulled her GMC Sierra into Calleigh's drive. She held her breath as her date exited the apartment building wearing a dark pin stripped suit and pink shirt. The blonde looked radiant and Natalia slipped out of the driver's seat and opened the passenger door.

"Why thank you Talia and hello."

"Hi and I have an ulterior motive."

"And what is that?" inquired Calleigh as her eyes locked onto brown obs.

"I want to kiss you."

Calleigh moved into Natalia's arms, "Oh, I wish you would. I've thought of nothing else for the past three weeks, I've missed you darlin'."

"I've missed you too Cal." Natalia leaned down and gently pressed her lips to the blonde's.

Calleigh's hands inched up Natalia's waist and she responded to the kiss eagerly.

Natalia pulled back and looked into pools of green, "I think I've discovered a new pastime."

"Sign me up and you look really nice."

Glancing down at her black jeans and red buttoned shirt, Natalia whispered, "You're stunning and are you ready to go?"

"I am sweetie."

Natalia nuzzled into the side of the blonde's neck, "It feels good to have you in my arms."

"Mmm, yes it does."

The couple spent the next two hours savouring each other's company and the best barbequed ribs this side of the Mississippi.

"How did you know this was my favourite restaurant?" asked Calleigh as she swallowed the last bite of the tenderised beef.

"I remembered hearing you talk about it in the break room to Ryan."

"You have a very good memory Talia."

A wide smirk graced Natalia's face, "Over the years I've retained every snippet of information about you, especially everything you've ever told me."

Calleigh folded her napkin and reached for her date's left hand, "I like the fact you do listen and talking with you has always been easy."

"I feel the same way," replied Natalia as she caressed the back of Calleigh's hand with her thumb. "I recall you were the only one besides Horatio who would talk to me when it was revealed I was an FBI informant."

"Darlin', you were a victim of circumstances."

"I really like it when you call me that."

Calleigh's eyes glistened, "Good, because you are a darlin'."

Natalia waved her hand to get the waitress' attention, "Would you like to have dessert at my place?"

"I would indeed."

"Check please," Natalia said to the young server.

Once the bill was taken care of, Natalia walked Calleigh to the car park hand in hand and twenty minutes later, she was opening the front door for Calleigh to step through into the foyer.

"You know, I've been meaning to say you have a lovely home."

"Thanks, I bought it with some of Nick's insurance money and I really like the Spanish design of yours."

"Gracias."

"Usted es tan hermoso." (You are so beautiful)

Calleigh moved in closer and wrapped her arms around the taller women, "I'm thoroughly enjoying being with you."

"I am too Cal," responded Natalia before lowering her lips to Calleigh's.

The kiss was soft and explorative with each taking the time to map the taste and texture. As the kiss deepened, Natalia slowly caressed Calleigh's back with strong fingers.

Calleigh groaned and Natalia drew back, "Would you like some tea with dessert?"

"Yes please and are you okay?"

"I couldn't be better."

Cupping her hands around Natalia's face, Calleigh offered, "You set the pace darlin' and I'll follow, just know this is the best dating experience I've ever had."

"I keep waiting to wake up and discover this is all just a dream."

Calleigh chuckled, "No dream, it's all real. Is that why you want to take it slow?"

"No sweetie, it's because I want us to discover each other first. I don't want it to be about lust and lord knows I'm ready in that department."

"I've been all set for weeks, but you're right. This getting to know each other on this level is very nice."

Natalia led Calleigh into the living room and switched on the light, "Get comfortable and I'll organise dessert."

Five minutes passed and Natalia came back carrying a tray containing two cups of tea and two plates of pecan pie with ice cream.

"Did you make this?" inquired Calleigh after the first bite.

"I did this morning."

"It's really delicious Talia. I'm definitely going to keep you."

Natalia giggled into her cup.

Calleigh's Sanyo sounded with a jazz ringtone, "Sorry, that's my father."

"It's fine, go ahead."

Taking out her cell from the inside of her jacket, Calleigh answered, "Hello daddy."

"Hey there Lamb Chop," replied a surprisingly sober Kenwall "Duke" Duquesne. "I hope I haven't disturbed you."

"It's okay; I'm just out on a date."

"A date with Eric?"

"No, we broke up a while back."

There was a loud sigh on the other end, "Can't say I'm sorry to hear that, he just wasn't right for you."

"No he wasn't and I'm much happier now."

Duke knew what that meant, "Ah, so who is she?"

Calleigh tittered, "Do you remember my friend and work colleague Natalia Boa Vista?"

"Oh, the tall stunner with long brown hair and a nice smile?"

"Yes daddy, that's her."

"I like her honey, she's real nice."

"Yes she is, so why did you call?"

"Oh Lamb Chop, I nearly forgot. I wanted to invite you over next Saturday for dinner and that now includes your date."

"Let me discuss it with her and get back to you some time tomorrow."

"Okay, talk to you then, night."

"Goodnight."

Calleigh was engulfed by Natalia's arms after she placed her phone of the coffee table and the blonde inquired, "What is this all about?"

"That's for being up front with your father."

"Darlin', I have no intention of hiding you away like some kind of dirty little secret."

"Thank you Cal."

Leaning back, Calleigh forced Natalia to follow her, "While we are on the subject, Eric spoke to me briefly yesterday."

Natalia adjusted her position and stretched her long legs out with her left side against Calleigh's upper torso, "How was he?"

"A little sheepish and I let drop that I knew he sent you flowers."

"You are evil Duquesne."

"Only when provoked and he did exactly that when he asked me out."

"He didn't?"

"He most certainly did and I had great joy in telling him I already had a date."

"Lord, I hope he isn't going to be a problem."

"I doubt it Talia and the last I heard from the rumour mill before I left was he had a date with Sally Otis from Admin."

Natalia giggled into Calleigh's collarbone, "Well, she is probably the only woman left in the building who hasn't dated him."

"Do you think Eric has changed since his real father turned up?"

"I believe so. He has always been close to his mother Carmen, but now their relationship is strained and I think he is struggling. I know he is still seeing his Psychiatrist on a regular basis, but I've noticed subtle changes in his behaviour."

"Yeah I have too, especially his temper."

"Yes it's a concern. Horatio is well aware of it and keeping a close eye on him."

Natalia frowned.

"What is it?"

"I just don't want him causing any trouble."

"Hopefully he will be too busy with Sally Otis to even notice what is going on with us."

"I wish I was that confident Cal, I've seen his rage in full outburst mode and he scared me."

Calleigh twirled a lock of Natalia's hair, "Did he ever hurt you?"

"It was nothing. He pushed me against the wall one day at the lab and got in my face ranting and raving about how I did him wrong."

"Why didn't you ever tell me?"

"It was years ago when I first started with the lab."

"That's unacceptable behaviour Talia," countered a livid Calleigh.

"Leave it honey, it's in the past."

"I'm going to speak to Horatio about it. I've noticed Eric's short fuse myself and as his superior, I have an obligation to protect him and everyone else at the lab."

Natalia rolled her head back and looked up, "There is the possibility his mood swings are being caused by the bullet fragment still lodged in his brain."

"I've thought of that too darlin'. Oh, dad's invited us over for dinner next Saturday and he approves of our dating."

Natalia smiled smugly, "I kind of gathered that."

Calleigh's grin deepened, "You know, you have great eyes."

"So do you and I love the way you say "you know". You're southern accent gets to me every time."

"I'll keep that in mind."

"I've never had someone compliment me on my eyes before."

"Really, they are like deep pools of warm dark chocolate and so expressive."

"You are such a sweet talker Miss Duquesne and I like it. I also like this easiness between us and it's nice not to have my date go on about my chest or ogle."

Calleigh roared with laughter then retorted, "Darlin', I'm a southern lady and was raised with better manners, but that doesn't mean I'm not impressed."

"Thank goodness for manners, so tell me when did you start seeing me in a different light?"

"Right from the beginning, I've always been attracted to you Talia. I nearly asked you out several times over the years."

"You should have then we both could have avoided some heartache."

"I suppose so," replied Calleigh forlornly.

"It broke my heart to watch how Jake treated you. I just wanted to slap him."

In reply, Calleigh hungrily captured Natalia's lips. For the next two hours, the couple kissed and talked with both sharing memories of their childhoods.

When the hour grew late, Calleigh rose from the couch and bid Natalia goodnight.

"You could stay?" suggested Natalia as she stood and pecked Calleigh on the neck.

"I could, but it would mean taking our relationship to the next level. I wouldn't be able to keep my hands off you darlin'."

"I'll take that as a compliment and say goodnight."

"Would you like to go for a picnic and boat cruise tomorrow?"

"That sounds wonderful."

"My daddy owns a boat and I have a key. I'll pick you up at ten and supply the food. All you need is a swim suit, sun block and a towel."

"I can organise that and I'll call you a cab."

Calleigh kissed Natalia again, "God help me, your kisses are breathtaking."

"As are yours sweetheart."

Picking up her cell, Natalia called the taxi company and the pair traded kisses until they heard a horn toot. Natalia watched as Calleigh opened the front door and headed for the cab. She waved from the porch and sighed heavily when the blonde disappeared from view.

-0-